(WNN/UN/HRW) Geneva, SWITZERLAND: Warning of crimes against humanity and possible war crimes being committed, the United Nations human rights chief today called on the international community this week to overcome differences in order to end the violence and human rights violations in Syria.

Reports of specific and increasing violence against women has also been reported. “Syrian security forces have used sexual violence to humiliate and degrade detainees with complete impunity,” said Sarah Leah Whitson, Middle East director at Human Rights Watch. “The assaults are not limited to detention facilities – government forces and pro-government shabiha militia members have also sexually assaulted women and girls during home raids and residential sweeps,” continued Whitson.